Sat Apr 12 17:16:21 UTC 2025: ## Georgia Takes Historic Step to Combat Hinduphobia
**Atlanta, GA – April 10, 2025** – Georgia is poised to become the first state in the nation to formally recognize Hinduphobia as a hate crime. Senate Bill 375, introduced this week, proposes amending the state’s penal code to explicitly define and criminalize Hinduphobia, empowering law enforcement to effectively address anti-Hindu bias crimes.
The bipartisan bill, spearheaded by Senators Shawn Still (R) and Clint Dixon (R), alongside Senators Jason Esteves (D) and Emanuel D. Jones (D), defines Hinduphobia as “a set of antagonistic, destructive, and derogatory attitudes and behaviors towards Hinduism.” The bill mandates that state and local agencies consider Hinduphobia when enforcing anti-discrimination laws.
The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) hailed the legislation as a landmark achievement, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the senators and the Hindu community. This follows a 2023 Georgia state resolution condemning Hinduphobia, a move also lauded by Hindu advocacy groups.
Support for SB 375 is rooted in the growing Hindu-American population in Georgia, particularly within the Atlanta metropolitan area, estimated at over 40,000 individuals. The bill’s proponents emphasize the need to protect this community and acknowledge the significance of Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest religions, with over 1.2 billion followers globally.
“Senator Still’s commitment to fighting Hinduphobia has been a beacon of hope,” stated Rajeev Menon, founder of the Hindus of Georgia PAC, a key supporter of the bill. Dhiru Shah, a senior community leader and board member of the PAC, also expressed gratitude for the tireless efforts of the organization and its supporters.
The bill’s passage would represent a significant step in addressing religious discrimination in the United States, where an estimated 2.5 million Hindus reside. The outcome of SB 375 remains pending legislative action.
First Piper 